He- has completed his mission and now his body is as perfect as his spirit.
—Jena Christensen Weight, mother
Michael Lawrence Weight, 45, son of George LaMar and Jena Bell Christensen Weight, passed away at home in Springville on May 10, 2024, after complications from illness. He could be alternately tenacious and determined, yet calm and gentle as the breezes that blew outside his window. Born profoundly disabled with cerebral palsy, Mike left a lasting impression on all who knew him and taught his other family members the value of service and unconditional love. The constant care he required also helped teach all in his family the value of human life and the strength of the human spirit. We are the family we are today because of him.
Mike spent several years of his early life at the RECEP program and Oakridge School for disabled youth, where his mom also worked. Mike had simple joys in life: Music, laughter, gentle speech, getting attention, being cleaned up, and a nice head rub. Any sweet treat was a hit with him.
Mike was happy and content, and his laughter could light up the room. He was constantly patient with all of us in our attempts to care for him. We in his family enjoyed imagining what he would say to us if he could and pondering the abilities he was not able to express. We are all looking forward to reuniting with him and getting to know the strong spirit he really is. We have no doubt he is back in the arms of Our Savior. He was a special spirit who represented the Lord well.
He was fascinated by light and would spend many hours looking at the lights in his room and at sunlight streaming through the window. Now he is with The Light, where he is reunited with his mother Jena and all his grandparents, as well as countless ancestors who have passed before.
Mike was the last sibling to join the family and the first to depart. He leaves behind his father George and older siblings Alden, Leslie, Daniel, Laurel (Chris), Maren (Wayne), and Rebecca. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, grand-nephews, bonus relations, and many members of his extended family circle.
Funeral services for Mike will be held at the 10th Ward chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 495 S. Canyon Road at 11 AM on Saturday, May 18. A viewing will be held at Wheeler Mortuary in Springville on Friday from 6-8 PM, with another viewing at the chapel an hour prior to the funeral, for all who wish to express condolences.
Our family owes thanks to so many friends, family members, and organizations. But to name a few, thanks to those mentioned above who taught and trained him early in life. Thanks also to our social services caseworker Trevor Pease, who regularly ensured Mike received the appropriate care. Our gratitude also to the staff of Wheeler Mortuary, iCare Hospice, and Utah Valley Regional Medical Center who cared for him in the last weeks of his life. We’re sure Michael appreciates all you’ve done for him!